Natural stone, marble and granite care

What this guide covers

Natural stone is not one uniform surface. Marble, limestone, travertine, slate and granite have different characteristics, and the finish and sealer also affect care. A method that is tolerated by one installation may etch, dull or stain another.

This guide covers cautious routine cleaning. Existing etching, deep staining, cracks, failed sealant, loose tiles and restoration are specialist matters.

Check the surface or item

Find the installation record, supplier information or care sheet. Do not rely on a marble-like pattern: porcelain and composite materials can imitate stone, while engineered surfaces may have their own restrictions.

Check whether the surface is polished, honed, textured or sealed. Look across it in side light for dull patches, scratches or rings that already exist. Photographing the starting condition can help distinguish old damage from a cleaning result.

When the material or finish is uncertain, ask the supplier or installer before introducing a cleaner.

Before you start

Remove loose grit with a clean soft tool so it cannot be dragged across the stone. Blot fresh spills instead of spreading them. Read both the cleaner label and the stone-care instructions, then patch test in an inconspicuous position and allow the test to dry fully.

Prepare separate clean cloths or a clean mop and fresh rinse water. Excess soap or dirty rinse water can leave a film. Protect adjoining metal, wood and painted surfaces from splashes.

A conservative approach

The Natural Stone Institute recommends a neutral cleaner, stone soap or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent with warm water for routine care, following the product manufacturer's concentration directions. Use a clean rag mop on floors or a soft cloth on other surfaces.

Work in manageable sections. Do not flood seams or edges. Rinse thoroughly where the selected product requires it, change rinse water frequently and dry with a soft cloth so residue and water marks do not remain.

Treat a stain as a diagnosis problem, not a cue to scrub harder. Its source, the stone and the finish determine the suitable response. Record what caused it and seek stone-specific advice before using a poultice, solvent or strong chemical.

What to avoid

• Avoid vinegar, lemon, limescale remover and other acidic cleaners unless the stone manufacturer explicitly approves the exact product.
• Do not use abrasive powder, scouring pads, metal tools or gritty cloths on a polished finish.
• Do not assume granite and marble accept the same products.
• Do not over-concentrate soap or cleaner; residue can create film and streaking.
• Do not apply a sealer because water darkens the stone without checking the stone, finish, existing treatment and sealer instructions.
• Do not try successive stain chemicals or mix products.

Acid etching changes the stone itself and is not ordinary dirt. More cleaning will not restore the lost polish.

When to stop and seek advice

Stop if the patch test changes colour or sheen, the cloth picks up pigment, the surface becomes rough or cloudy, grout loosens, or a crack, hollow tile or failed seal is found.

Use a stone-care professional for unknown stains, widespread etching, lippage, deep scratches, damaged sealers or valuable installations. Unknown construction residue, adhesive or hazardous material is outside routine household cleaning and should not be guessed at.